The district has shared it is currently in the process of rebalancing the budget and has been proactively planning reductions. 

After closing out the 2021-2022 financial statements in October, the district ended with a five percent fund balance. If the district does not adjust the 2022-2023 budget, it is projected to end the fiscal year with a two percent fund balance, due to unexpected expenditures. The district will prepare for some reductions earlier than planned to maintain the district policy of a four percent fund balance. 

Current Reductions 

The district will reduce $900,000 during the 2022-2023 school year. In addition to reducing portions of the general operations, materials, and supply budgets, the district will make the following staff reductions by January 1, 2023: 

• Eliminate one human resource office program assistant 
• Eliminate one district office administrative assistant   
• Eliminate three technology staff  
• Reduce contracted days for Technology Integration Coordinator

The Anacortes School Board approved a resolution on Thursday, November 10, 2022 to reduce its workforce, which is required by collective bargaining agreements.  

Next Steps

Over the next several months, the district will continue partnering with internal and external stakeholders, preparing for future reductions. Rebalancing the budget this school year and the next school year (cutting at least $2.6 million in staffing, materials, and operational costs) is necessary to maintain a stable four percent fund balance. The district will continue to meet with staff, collective bargaining groups, the Budget Advisory Council, and other community groups to identify budget priorities. 

“We will use our strategic plan to align budget priorities and build a budget based on what is required, essential, and discretionary for student learning,” said Superintendent Justin Irish. “Our staff will continue to work diligently to align revenues and expenditures, review data, and ensure that budgets are accurate and transparent.” 

Opportunities for Input 

There are several opportunities for the community to provide input and learn more about the district’s budget. 

• Budget Town Halls - 12/8/22, 2/2/23, 4/27/23 - 5:30 - 7 p.m. in the Anacortes High Commons. The Budget Town Halls are open to anyone and will include a presentation as well as audience Q&A. 
• Budget Advisory Council - the council meets regularly to review the budget and provide input. Meetings are open to the public to observe. 
• Additional materials about the budget can be found on our website: https://www.asd103.org/District/Department/26-Finance

Questions? Contact Mike Sullivan, Executive Director of Finance & Operations (360) 503-1213 or masullivan@asd103.org